Poetry by Heart

Choose a Poem, Learn it, Recite it.

In 2015, ELSA partnered with the UK National Competition, Poetry by Heart, to bring the event to its network of member schools. The high school competition was a huge success and soon more than 25 international schools in France and abroad were taking part.

ELSA now organizes three different levels of competition running this year: Primary, Middle School and High School. Participating schools organize in-school competitions to identify the finalists who will compete at the inter-school finals.

The grand winner of the High School competition is invited to attend the London Final at the Globe Theater.

2026 Poetry by Heart Competitions

To enter one or all three competitions, please first contact the Poetry by Heart Coordinator by using the registration form(s) below. Once you have submitted your information, an invoice will be issued for payment(s) which must be made to confirm the school’s entry.

Primary Competition

Friday 27th March 2026, from 14:00 to 16:00 — Union School, Paris

Coordinator: Coralie Manhes-Sims

Register

Middle School Competition

Saturday 28th March 2026, from 10:00 to 13:00 — Ecole Jeannine Manuel, Paris

Coordinator: Chelsea Kaspereit

Register

High School Competition

Saturday 28th March 2026, from 10:00 to 13:00 — Ecole Jeannine Manuel, Paris

Coordinator: Antony McDermott

Register